The VfB Stuttgart will face RB Leipzig in a crucial Bundesliga match on the ninth matchday. This encounter is particularly significant since last season, Stuttgart dealt a blow to Leipzig’s hopes for European competition by winning 3-2. To gain insights into Leipzig’s current situation, we spoke with Ulli Kroemer, a journalist and expert on the team.
Leipzig’s Transition After Last Season
Leipzig concluded the previous Bundesliga season with disappointment. They missed out on European competition, largely due to their loss to Stuttgart. This setback prompted significant changes within the club.
- Key transfers included significant investments of 40 to 50 million euros on players like Xavi Simons and Lois Openda.
- A focus on character and team chemistry became essential to the team’s strategy.
Challenges and Recovery in the New Season
Leipzig faced a tough start to the current season, highlighted by a 6-0 defeat against Bayern Munich. This match reflected lingering issues from the previous season.
However, following the transfer window, the team showed signs of revitalization. They found new cohesion and have been successful since then, winning several matches, including a 4-1 victory against Cottbus in the cup.
Strengths of the Current Squad
The team’s current strength lies in its newfound unity and work ethic. Players like Christoph Baumgartner and Nicolas Seiwald have thrived in this improved environment.
Moreover, young talents such as Assan Ouédrago and Yan Diomande are making noticeable impacts on the team.
Assessment of Recent Transfers and Coaching Changes
During the last summer transfer window, Leipzig significantly restructured its squad, including the departures of Benjamin Sesko and Xavi Simons to England.
Their investment in new talent like Conrad Leimer, Romulo, and Bakayo, alongside experienced coach Ole Werner, seems to have paid off remarkably.
Ole Werner’s Coaching Approach
Ulli Kroemer expressed a positive view of Ole Werner’s coaching thus far. His clear and grounded approach has effectively guided the team through this transition.
His decisions regarding players such as the starting goalkeeper and captain have been successful and fitting for Leipzig’s current environment.
Upcoming Match Analysis: VfB Stuttgart vs. RB Leipzig
The clash between VfB Stuttgart and RB Leipzig is significant, with Leipzig currently in second place and Stuttgart in third. Ulli Kroemer praised the progress made by Stuttgart under coach Sebastian Hoeness. He believes that Leipzig can achieve Champions League qualification this season, although claiming to be Bayern Munich’s main competitor seems overly ambitious.
Player Availability for the Match
Leipzig may be without key players Benjamin Henrichs, Kosta Nedeljkovic, and young talent Viggo Gebel for the upcoming match. Kroemer predicts a close encounter, suggesting Leipzig can win with a score of 3-2, given their recent momentum.
